Corrugated Pipe Lateral Connector With Full-Circumference Compressive Seal
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing lateral connectors for corrugated pipes in underground water systems are cumbersome to install, provide insufficient sealing, and require a large number of sizes for varying pipe diameters.
Innovation Solution
A hub and sleeve assembly for corrugated pipes that forms a compressive seal around the entire circumference, accommodating pipes with varying thicknesses through radial stops and a region of increased thickness, ensuring secure and leak-proof connections.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional lateral connectors are used for corrugated pipes, then connections can be made between pipes, but the connectors are cumbersome to install and provide insufficient sealing
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is divided into two main segments: a hub portion and a sleeve portion. The hub portion is inserted into the corrugated pipe first, followed by the sleeve portion that encloses the hub. This segmentation allows each part to perform its specific function - the hub provides internal support and sealing against the pipe wall, while the sleeve provides external protection and connection points, thereby improving sealing effectiveness without complicating installation
Solution Approach 2:
The hub portion is nested within the sleeve portion, creating a compact integrated structure. The hub fits inside the sleeve with interference fits and engagement features that ensure proper positioning and sealing. This nested configuration improves sealing by ensuring the hub is securely positioned against the pipe wall while the sleeve provides additional containment and structural support
2Adaptability or versatility
If conventional lateral connectors are used for varying pipe diameters, then different pipe sizes can be connected, but a large number of connector sizes must be stocked
Solution Approach 1:
The connector design incorporates adjustable and adaptable features that allow a single connector type to accommodate multiple pipe diameters and wall thicknesses. The hub portion can be adjusted to fit different pipe inner diameters, and the sleeve portion can accommodate varying outer diameters. This universality eliminates the need to stock multiple connector sizes while maintaining compatibility with varying pipe specifications
Solution Approach 2:
The connector utilizes parameters such as adjustable engagement features, variable thickness sections, and flexible sealing elements that can adapt to different pipe dimensions. By changing these parameters within a single connector design rather than creating multiple fixed-size connectors, the system achieves versatility across varying pipe sizes without increasing device complexity
3Adaptability or versatility
If conventional lateral connectors are used, then pipe connections can be made, but the connectors require large numbers of sizes for varying sized corrugated pipes
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is designed as a universal fitting that can accommodate a range of corrugated pipe sizes through adjustable engagement mechanisms and flexible sealing components. A single connector type can be used across multiple pipe diameter specifications, dramatically reducing the quantity of different connector sizes that need to be inventoried and stocked while maintaining full compatibility with varying pipe sizes
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The assembly provides a secure, leak-proof connection that accommodates pipes with varying thicknesses, enhancing installation efficiency and sealing effectiveness.
Implementation Method 1
a compressive seal is formed between the hub and sleeve assembly and the inner pipe wall such that the hub and sleeve assembly is sealingly engaged with the inner pipe wall around an entire circumference of the hub and sleeve assembly
Data Source
AI summary
A pipe junction includes a corrugated pipe including a pipe wall having an inner pipe wall and an outer pipe wall, the outer pipe wall having a plurality of peaks and a plurality of valleys disposed between the plurality of peaks, and an opening through the pipe wall. The corrugated pipe junction includes a hub and sleeve assembly received within the opening of the pipe wall, the hub and sleeve assembly including a hub received within the sleeve. When the hub and sleeve assembly is received within the opening of the pipe wall, a compressive seal is formed between the hub and sleeve assembly and the inner pipe wall such that the hub and sleeve assembly is sealingly engaged with the inner pipe wall around an entire circumference of the hub and sleeve assembly.